How to turn a compact living space into a comfortable home

We were presented with the amazing opportunity to style and design this space for South African rugby player, Herchel Jantjies. One of our interior designers from Paarl, Mignon Mostert, has done a stellar job!

Here are some tips to help you optimise and visually expand a smaller space.

Mirrors can make all the difference.

USING LARGE-SCALE ARTWORKS OR MIRRORS

If you have a small room and want to hang wall décor; rather opt for one big centrepiece, instead of a salon-style arrangement. Limit it to one wall. It is better to leave more open walls, than to over-clutter. For Herchel, we used the large mirror with a black frame to create some depth and to refract the light from the adjacent sliding door back into the space.

THE USE OF RUGS

We incorporated this rug from Hertex to create the illusion that there is a larger floor surface. When using diagonal lines, as seen in the pattern of the rug we used, it will immediately open up the space, thus adding an expansive feeling to the room.

The golden rule for small spaces has stood the test of time – less truly is more!

THE FURNITURE FOCAL POINT

When you have a compact space to decorate, make use of a sizable centrepiece of furniture and add a single chair, rather than using a number of accent chairs. Our Constantia chair is also ideal for modest rooms – with its rounded look and exposed solid wooden legs. Exposed legs on furniture impart the appearance of a more vast space.

A simple chair with exposed legs gives the illusion of space.

MULTI-FUNCTIONAL FURNITURE

Multi-functional furniture is a great way to reduce clutter and give the appearance of space.

Styling furniture that can be used for more than one purpose is an eloquent way to eliminate welter and will ensure the appearance of room for activity. We utilized our C-Shape side table, which can be placed over the armrest of the couch, as well as the seating. This is one of Incanda’s top sellers. You can simply add a basket for extra storage, if so desired.

DO NOT CLUTTER

This is very important! Do not collect an excessive amount of clutter. Make use of one or two larger décor items, instead of loads of small knick-knacks. The golden rule for small spaces has stood the test of time – less truly is more!